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St. Lucie County deputies said Anderson was being pulled over for a seat-belt violation, but he tried to run away from police.

Eventually, deputies tackled him, used pepper spray on him and then took him into custody. Days later, he was taken off life support at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, and his loved ones think Anderson was beaten to death.

"We just want to know answers," said his sister, Reneshia Moody. "And we just want justice for him. He shouldn't have died the way he died."

That's where the Rev. Samuel Taylor enters the picture. He's trying to help the family get in touch with civil rights leaders to bring attention to the case.

"The young man was gasping for air and saying he couldn't breathe," Taylor said. "To me it's not a black or white issue, or a red and yellow issue, this is an unjustice issue."

The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office said it is investigating. An autopsy report is pending.

Anderson's family admits he had a long history with police, including instances where he resisted officers, but added that they don't think it merits a death sentence.